Word
unfolding
Phoneticsun·fold·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ənˈfoʊɫdɪŋ/
UK/ʌnfˈəʊldɪŋ/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the way a story or a series of events happens over time. You use it to describe how a situation develops step by step.
n. the process of a situation or narrative developing and becoming clearer as time passes.
Examples
“The unfolding of the story kept everyone interested.”
“Journalists across the country provided live updates on the unfolding of the political crisis as new evidence emerged.”
“The slow unfolding of the mystery allows the author to build tension without relying on cheap shocks or sudden plot twists.”
Examples
simple
“The unfolding of the story kept everyone interested.”
contextual
“Journalists across the country provided live updates on the unfolding of the political crisis as new evidence emerged.”
complex
“The slow unfolding of the mystery allows the author to build tension without relying on cheap shocks or sudden plot twists.”
Usage
Often used with 'of' to describe the development of a specific event or narrative.
Real-World Examples
“Many pieces engaged with larger debates unfolding across the Jewish world, including the rise of Hitler and the consequences his growing power might have for Jewish communities in Ireland and abroad.” “Today, human-caused carbon emissions and warming are unfolding vastly faster than during the PETM.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/unfolding